Increasing cold = increasing energy usage. What can you do?

It’s here … colder weather. And the worst is yet to come. But fret not, we’re here to help.

When the temperature plummets, energy use rises as a necessary result of keeping your home warm. With that increase in energy usage comes a likely increase in your monthly bill, but there are a few things you can do to help keep the cost more manageable.

• Make sure your furnace is ready for the job – It’s not too late to have your system checked out by a professional so that it runs at peak efficiency. And don’t forget to change the filter per the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Keep the cold air out – Caulk windows and doors and use weather stripping to stop leaks.
• Take it down – Your thermostat, that is. Lower it by two degrees to keep the furnace from running as much.
• Two is better than one – Add an extra blanket to the bed.
• Keep it closed – Close fireplace doors and the damper when the fireplace is not being used.
• Let the sunshine in – Open blinds, curtains and shades during the day to let Mother Nature help keep things a bit warmer indoors.

Go to lge-ku.com/toolbox for more energy-efficiency ideas.